What is an Exercise EKG Test?
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is one of the fastest and simplest procedures used to evaluate the electrical activity and patterns of the heart. It consists of using electrodes (small stickers) that are placed at certain locations on your child’s arms, chest and legs or trunk. When the electrodes are attached to lead wires connected to the EKG machine the electrical activity and pattern of your child’s heart is measured, printed out and ready for the physician to analyze and make an interpretation. An exercise EKG (also called exercise stress test) is performed by doctors or specialists on patients to assess the heart’s response to exercise or stress. The EKG is continuously monitored while your child is exercising on a stationary or supine bike or treadmill. This procedure is appropriately and safely used on children from 5 years old to young adults. At certain points throughout the exercise stress test an EKG recording and tracing will be printed out to enable doctors or specialis
